Research Scientist 3 - Program Evaluator

(Posting #242-25)

The NJ Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Applied Research and Evaluation (OARE) seeks a Research Scientist 3 – Program Evaluator who, under the direction of a Research Scientist 1 or other supervisory official in a state department, institution or agency, conducts or participates in research projects or developed programs in a specified professional field; does other related work.

This position will provide technical and administrative support for the Office of Applied Research and Evaluation’s research and evaluation-related projects.

Position is located in Trenton, NJ and may be eligible to work remotely for up to two (2) days in a calendar week.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

* Support the design and implementation of program evaluation projects across the Department using qualitative and quantitative methods.

* Assist in the coordination and management of evaluation teams consisting of both research and programmatic staff.

* Review, summarize and communicate findings from relevant scientific and national literature related to research and program evaluation projects.

* Participate in the design of evaluation plans.

* Develop and maintain data collection tools, data collection systems and databases as needed.

* Maintain analytical files including analytical outputs and tables evaluation findings.

* Participate in continuous quality improvement processes related to DCF programs. Create and maintain standardized reports and data visualizations. Facilitate data-driven conversations aimed at improving program performance and outcomes.

* Analyze qualitative and quantitative data using software packages such as Excel and SPSS.

* Maintain interactive data dashboards and visualizations using Tableau for program partners and stakeholders.

* Collaborate with stakeholder groups to implement projects, interpret data and develop recommendations.

* Communicate findings to stakeholders at multiple levels and with various backgrounds through presentations and written products.

REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's or advanced degree in Public Health, Social Work, Psychology or other Social Science field appropriate for this position. PhD is preferred.

EXPERIENCE: Two (2) years of full-time experience in a field appropriate to the position.

SPECIAL NOTE: Successful candidates will have at least two (2) years of experience evaluating programs in public health, child welfare, health services or related areas along with:

* Proven quantitative analysis skills.

* Proven track record of delivering accurate, comprehensive results within tight deadlines.

* Excellent oral and written communication skills.

* Strong problem-solving and communication skills.

* Enjoy working independently and in teams in a fast-paced environment.

* Passionate about conducting research with real-world impact.

NOTE: A Doctorate in a discipline appropriate to the position may be substituted for two (2) years of experience indicated above.

RESUME NOTE: Eligibility determinations will be based upon information presented on the resume only. Applicants who possess a degree from a college or university outside the United States must provide an evaluation of one’s transcripts from a recognized evaluation service at the time of submission by the above closing date. Failure to do so may result in your ineligibility.

SALARY: $74,534.83- $105,943.75

TO APPLY: You must submit a cover letter and resume as a single PDF document, saving the file by your Last Name, First Name.

Please indicate in your cover letter the Posting # and where you found this job opportunity. Send the file to:

Job.Posting@dcf.nj.gov

LICENSE: Appointee will be required to possess a driver’s license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS: As a prospective employee of the State of New Jersey, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website at StudentAid.gov/PSLF.

VETERANS PREFERENCE: Are you a veteran? If so, proof of your NJ Veterans Preference is required at application. Please provide a copy of your New Jersey Civil Service Commission NOTIFICATION OF VETERANS STATUS along with your cover letter and resume. For information on how to apply for Veterans Preference in the State of NJ, please visit the Civil Service Commission's website at http://www.state.nj.us/csc/seekers/veterans.

SAME APPLICANTS: If you are applying under the NJ “SAME” program, your supporting documents (Schedule A or B letter), must be submitted along with your resume by the closing date indicated above. For more information on the SAME Program visit their Website at: https://nj.gov/csc/same/overview/index.shtml, e-mail: CSC-SAME@csc.nj.gov or call CSC at (609) 292-4144, option 3.

RE-EMPLOYMENT LISTS: Applicable special re-employment list established as a result of a layoff will be used before any appointments are made.

UNIT SCOPE: Any appointments made from postings which involve movement between unit scopes may result in a forfeiture of rights to any promotional list in a former unit scope. A complete list of DCF unit scopes can be found at:

https://www.nj.gov/dcf/about/employment/dcf/DCF_UNIT_SCOPE_LIST_11.15.2024.pdf

RESIDENCY LAW: Please refer to the New Jersey Department of Children and Families’ website at: https://www.nj.gov/dcf/about/employment/dcf/.

The Department of Children and Families is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive work environment which reflects the diversity of the state we serve.